Don't overlook
BASIS DC because it's a tuition-free public charter school. Despite what you think of such institutions, this is still one of the best international schools in Washington D.C.. Not only does USNews consistently rank it as one of the top middle schools in the American capital, but time and time again, it has also produced some of the brightest minds in the country. At the same time, it welcomes students from all over the city and beyond, catering to kids of different backgrounds, cultures, and more. BASIS DC stands as proof that an international school need not be private or reserved for the elites.
Source: BASIS DC Facebook Page
History of BASIS DC
Michael Block and Olga Block started the BASIS Curriculum Schools in 1998 in Arizona. Its first few locations were all in Arizona until 2012 when the school in
Washington D.C. was established. Its location in the American capital became the first outside of Arizona, eventually leading to other branches opening in different parts of the US. Today, all BASIS schools stand for academic excellence and offer educational opportunities to all children, regardless of their social and economic backgrounds. The D.C. school in particular is now one of the finest international schools in the city.
What is BASIS DC's Campus Like?
The BASIS DC campus is located on 8th St NW near Dupont Circle, one of the
central Washington D.C. neighborhoods. Encompassing three big buildings along the street, placing it in the middle of the city. While it's far from the biggest school in Washington D.C., it's still a fairly secure campus. All students will remain safe here, despite its very urban location. As for its facilities, it has everything a school needs to provide a complete scholastic experience. There are big classrooms, well-equipped laboratories, a big library, a clean cafeteria, and more.
Source: BASIS DC Facebook Page
The BASIS DC Student Body
BASIS DC has an appropriate number of students considering the size of its campus. The school welcomes about 650 students per year, composed of both new applicants and returning students who have yet to graduate. As a public international school in Washington D.C., its student body is also wholly diverse. It's made up of about 50.9% White students, 20.3% Black/African-American students, 9.8% Hispanic/Latino, 6.6% Asian/Pacific Islander students, and 0.2% Native American students. The school is also open to all students who have just
moved to Washington D.C. regardless of their current status.
What is BASIS DC's Curriculum?
Part of what makes BASIS DC—and its network of American schools—stand out against other international schools in Washington D.C. is that it follows its own curriculum. Its founders, Michael Block and Olga Block, established the schools to provide a different approach to educating young minds. For them, the pursuit of academic excellence entails giving students limitless opportunities, various choices on how to move forward, and the ability to shape their own futures. It's a more student-centered approach, allowing the youth their own agency in what to learn, what to discover, and what to do with their lives.
Where is BASIS DC in Washington D.C.?
As already mentioned, BASIS DC is located on 8th St NW, fairly near Dupont Circle. The neighborhood is among the most popular areas in Washington D.C., which maintains a nice balance between a residential district and a nightlife scene. There are ample parts where people go out to eat, shop, and have fun, while others offer the best
luxury apartments in Washington D.C. to rent. As far as settling down in the city goes, Dupont Circle is one of the best out there. You and your family can easily live a pleasant life here, especially since it's near a great school.
Source: BASIS DC Facebook Page
BASIS DC is a public charter school proving that high-quality education isn't exclusive to elite academies and private schools. Even as a tuition-free institution, BASIS DC remains one of the finest international schools in the American capital.
